The Best of Designer Cases and Covers for the Samsung GALAXY S4

The Samsung Galaxy S4 may be one of the world's most popular devices of all time, but it took a little hunting around to find cases aimed at the design conscious consumer, diverging away from the device's plastic fantastic exterior. Here is a selection of S4 covers and cases ranging from sophisticated to playfully colorful...

The 11+ Switch Cover for the Samsung Galaxy S4 is sublime, an accessory with the sort of material detailing and minimalist aesthetic usually connected to Apple's philosophy of less is more (in fact, there's an iPhone edition, but I think the S4 version is more beautifully tailored). The $40 case is available in 5 colors at Leibal, easily my first choice recommendation for S4 owners.

Made in Los Angeles, Piel skins for the Galaxy S4 use adhesive backing to grip onto the back of Samsung's latest, leaving ports and buttons accessible, but transforming the finish with tasteful wood engraved designs.

The Ultra Slim Fit Leather Flip Cover by OBLIQ is a form fitting case with metallic faux leather and super soft microfiber lining inside, doubling as a wallet. Whether in all-business black or chipper bright blue (available in 8 colors in all), the $15.99 is a bargain without looking any bit bargain bin.

Distinctive Style's polycarbonate and synthetic leather cases snap onto the Galaxy S4 while leaving all the ports and buttons accessible. It's the eye-catching and unusual white wood and smoked gray wood finishes which make these cases stand out from similar offerings.

Nuwoods offers a selection of wood and polycarbonate cases ranging from Redwood Burl, Rosewood, and striking Olive Ash Burl, softening up the plastic-modern finish of the S4 with the organic feel of wood. $26.00-$31.00

Many iPhone toting friends turn to Society 6 to protect and accessorize their iOS devices, but the selection of cases for the Galaxy S4 is still modest. Some of the most graphically enticing options is offered currently by Vess DSign.

Etsy seller TonCase has a wide selection of cases for the Galaxy line, from the S2, S3, Note 1 & 2, and now the Galaxy S4. Here are three of my favorites from their wood & texture collection.

Niubility sells these selection of Chanel nail polish design cases in both hard and soft finishes, an accessory seemingly designed for the sole purpose of pulling out of a small clutch during an evening affair and being noticed.